Byzantine Stories

In part 2 we delve into the hidden criticisms in Procopius’ work. Not only the dirt in the “Secret History” but the many allusions and comparisons in the Wars which we are left to wonder about. What do they tell us about Procopius? And people in the 6th century? What do they tell us about the process of writing history? How much do we really know? (39 minutes)

As far as we know Procopius is not featured in the famous mosaic but it remains the obvious image to pair with his work

Procopius of Caesarea (c500-555) was the biographer of Justinian. Officially he simply wrote the history of the Emperor’s wars. But thanks to the “Secret History” and “The Buildings” he managed to provide an all round view of the Basileus including both bile and gushing praise. In part one we follow the outline of Procopius’ life story and open his books to see what was in each work (40 minutes).

Relief of Porphyrius the Charioteer (now in the Istanbul Archeological Museum)

2nd relief of Porphyrius the Charioteer (now in the Istanbul Archeological Museum)

In part 2 we go down to the Hippodrome floor to see the glorious arena Constantine built and discover how a race was won. Then we cover the life story of Porphyrius from child prodigy to retiring champion. Finally we see the historical detective work which made this story possible.

The life of Porphyrius the Charioteer is not one we can dive in to. Very little is known about him but thanks to two unusual sources we can sketch the existence of this fascinating character. In part one we explore the history of Roman spectacles so that we can fully understand the context of Porphyrius’ world.

We explore the life of Symeon the Stylite (c388-459 AD). A Syrian country boy, Symeon joined a monastery as a teenager and would go on to found his own establishment. There he built a pillar and spent decades standing on it praying to God. He also became a miracle worker and wise-man for local towns and villages. We learn about the stories told about Symeon but also ask what do they mean? How did he survive up there? Did he really perform miracles? (63 minutes)

Engraving of Antioch by William Miller from a sketch by Byam Martin in 1866

Map of Antioch (mappery.com)

An introduction to life in Antioch in 350AD. Amidst the great buildings live the beleaguered poor of the Roman world. The Christians were destined to care for and convert these people but in 350AD the threat of losing souls to Judaism or Paganism was real.